The permanent garden installation Untitled (Waiata) is a process in motion. Weaving the past and present of the site into a composition which will grow with Objectspace’s future, the planting is sensitive to the movements of sunlight and indigeous plant species of the site, invoking their connection to the social contexts of the surrounding areas.

Blyth has made a selection of plants inspired by the traditional Māori healing form of Rongoā, with a particular emphasis on those designated as having healing and cleansing qualities. In time these species will provide shelter and sustenance for roaming insects and birdlife. The inclusion of taro calls into presence the earlier wealth of urban gardens found in Ponsonby, Freemans Bay and Grey Lynn, and signals to their important participation in the cultural life of the area.

Attentive to the poetic and symbiotic relationships of these plant species, together, and with growth, their leaf surfaces will begin to reflect a subtle, everchanging light path across the entrance to Objectspace, bringing with it a sense of movement, sound and luminosity to visitors.

The practice of artist and designer Olivia Blyth (Ngati Hamoa) investigates place, transitional spaces and the non-human contributors to our human communities. Applying ancient Polynesian frameworks to her research and methods, Blyth focuses on the role and responsibilities of the artist’s work within our communities.